Lab Assistant: Sterile Media Prep & QA Support

Certified Group; Tustin (CA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Certified Group’s Lab Assistant in the Chem Department prepares, sterilizes, and organizes media and reagents essential for analytical testing of foods, ingredients, and environmental samples. This role ensures sterile materials, accurate records, and safe operations, while collaborating across departments to support testing activities.

A high school diploma or GED is required; familiarity with aseptic sampling and autoclave use is preferred.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Familiarity with aseptic sampling techniques.
• Experience operating autoclaves and sterile dispensing equipment preferred.
• Basic knowledge of testing laboratory practices and general laboratory procedures.
• One or more years of experience in a commercial food-testing laboratory preferred.
• Competency with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) a plus.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and maintain bacteriological media and chemical solutions.
• Safely operate an autoclave to sterilize media, reagents, and supplies.
• Label, handle, store, use, and dispose of media and solutions in accordance with safety guidelines.
• Maintain an accurate inventory of prepared media and supplies.
• Collaborate with other departments to prepare required media in a timely manner.
• Perform work in a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient manner; maintain cleanliness and equipment within the department.
• Follow established processes, procedures, and techniques in accordance with FSNS policies/procedures, customer requirements, and the media operations manual.
• Maintain laboratory conditions, equipment, supplies, quality assurance programs, and accurate records throughout all procedures.
• Share information in an open and timely manner to support team collaboration.
• Complete required training and comply with safety and quality programs.

Skills

Strong organizational skills

Multitasking under deadlines

Attention to detail

Basic math skills

Ability to follow instructions

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Equivalent combination of education and experience

Tools

LIMS

Autoclave operation

Job description

Certified Group’s Lab Assistant in the Chem Department prepares, sterilizes, and organizes media and reagents essential for analytical testing of foods, ingredients, and environmental samples. This role ensures sterile materials, accurate records, and safe operations, while collaborating across departments to support testing activities.

A high school diploma or GED is required; familiarity with aseptic sampling and autoclave use is preferred.